Michael Jackson's doctor Conrad Murray will reportedly use old video footage of the pop legend as defence against the manslughter charges against him.

Lawyers for Murray want to use footages of a spaced-out Jackson to demonstrate the depth of his drug habit, News of the World reported.

The personal physician is set to stand trial on an involuntary manslaughter charge for administering propofal to Jackson shortly before his death in June last year.

Key videos will include footage of a frail Jackson during his 'This Is It' rehearsals and a 2007 court deposition where he discusses his pain medication.

"Murray's legal team have quietly but steadily been building a robust defence case. A key element will be on-camera interviews Michael Jackson gave where he discusses and admits his drug use and others where he appears to be intoxicated," said a legal source close to Murray.

"In effect, Michael Jackson himself will be the defence's star witness as they set out to prove he was a seasoned and habitual user and knew how to self-administer," the source added.

The lawyers also want the pop icon's children Paris and Prince to describe how their father constantly complemented Murray and claimed that he was "making him better".